EXCITEMENT is building in Stourport as young and old prepare for this weekend's town carnival, which promises to be bigger and better than ever.

Record entries have been received for the two river parades along the Severn and a colourful land parade is also being busily prepared for the big day on Saturday. Carnival queen Emma Delaney.

A fun-fair, all-star wrestling, performances by the Lickhill Middle School Steel Band, Stourport High School musicians, Shirley Pipe and Drum Band and Blind Lemon will all be on offer, as well as a plastic duck race, river and parachute displays and a firework finale.

Shops have been urged to take part in the best-dressed window contest, using red, white and blue for their creations, to win the Tradesmen's Bowl.

Publicity officer Pete Roberts said: "Everyone's buzzing now. We had such a great time at our 75th carnival celebrations last year people are sure the success will continue.

"There is something for everybody on the day, with the fun lasting right into the evening. We just hope the weather will do everyone a favour and the sun comes out."

Meanwhile, an appeal in last week's Shuttle/ Times & News by Stourport Business Association for a lorry for this year's carnival queen float has proved successful.

The group annually sponsors the queen's float in the parade, but needed a curtain-sided lorry after the firm, which usually supplies the vehicle, folded.

However, Taylors of Martley have come to the rescue to provide a 33ft lorry which will carry queen Emma Delaney, princess Charlotte Whitford and rosebud Angharad Rees.

SBA chairman Russell Hinton has appealed for volunteers to help prepare the float on carnival morning. To help call him on 01299 822886.

Carnival organisers are still in urgent need of folk to man the gates at the event. Anyone who can help should call Mr Roberts on 01299 826930.

l Drivers who are not making their way to the carnival have been urged to steer clear of the town centre on Saturday.

Kidderminster Police have organised road closures along the carnival procession route between 12.30pm and 3pm.

Sgt Pete Trueman said: "It is anticipated there will be considerable vehicular disruption during this time and motorists are asked to avoid Stourport altogether if possible."

Floats will leave the Areley Kings recreation field at 12.30pm and make their way through Bridge Street, High Street, Lombard Street, Gilgal and Lion Hill to the carnival field by the riverside.